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Rheumatologist
Rheumatologists are medical doctors who specialise in diagnosing and treating disorders that affect the joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and bones.

Rheumatologists are devoted to the care of patients with rheumatic diseases which are often manifested, at least in part, by the symptoms of arthritis. However, there are many diseases where arthritis only forms part of the clinical picture, or which are not related to arthritis, that also require the care of a rheumatologist. Besides arthritis, rheumatologists treat certain auto-immune diseases, musculoskeletal pain disorders and osteoporosis. These diseases have over 100 variations, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, lupus, back pain, osteoporosis, fibromyalgia and tendonitis. Some of these are very serious diseases that can be difficult to diagnose in the early stages.

To explain arthritis more clearly, it is important to look at its link to autoimmunity. Each of us has an immune system that functions to protect us from infection by bacteria, viruses, or other micro-organisms. In the case of a rheumatic disease, the immune system is overactive, having lost its regulatory control. So instead of simply attacking bacteria or other foreign organisms, the immune system turns on its own tissues and attacks them. In the case of arthritis, the immune system attacks the joints and the lining of the joints, resulting in inflammation in and around the joint. These diseases may be manifested in a host of other symptoms including hair loss, skin rashes, mouth ulcers, lymph node enlargement, chest or abdominal pain, dry eyes and mouth, genital ulcers, and involvement of internal organs such as lungs, kidneys, or other systems.

Osteoporosis is a rheumatic disease that causes the bones to weaken and degenerate. This condition is prevalent amongst women over 50 years old. Doctors recommend preventative methods such as good calcium intake and extra Vitamin D, which is helping to reduce the number of cases and resulting injuries.

Many young people, including children, can be afflicted by osteo- and rheumatoid arthritis. It is not only a disease of the elderly.

Many rheumatologists conduct research to determine the cause of and better treatments for these disabling and sometimes fatal diseases. They act as consultants to other physicians in the diagnosis and management of these diseases, and work with nurses, physical and occupational therapists, psychologists and social workers. They also provide accurate information to patients and their families.

Satisfying Aspects
- varied work
- very interesting career
- remuneration

Demanding aspects
- long hours requiring intense concentration
- many years of study required
- exposure to diseases such as rheumatic fever
- ongoing research and study to keep up-to-date with advances in this field

Requirements
- pay attention to detail
- have excellent communication skills and be able to work well with people
- have emotional strength and maturity
- be scientifically and mathematically minded
- work well under pressure
- enjoy finding solutions to problems

School Subjects
National Senior Certificate meeting degree requirements for a degree course

Each institution will have its own minimum entry requirements.

Compulsory Subjects: Mathematics, Physical Sciences
Recommended Subjects: Life Sciences

Note: Competition to enter medical studies is stiff and there are usually many applicants with excellent grades who would naturally be given preference.

Training
MBChB degree at UP, UCT, UFS, Wits, US, UL, UKZN:
- Theoretical training: 6 years
- Student internship: 1 year
- Practical work at a hospital: 1 year (also known as the house doctor year).

Postgraduate study for specialisation as an rheumatologist : 3 - 5 years.

Additional Requirements: before commencing post-graduate study at e.g. US, Wits, for specialization as an rheumatologist, the candidate must:

- be in possession of a MBChB degree for 2 years
- be registered as a medical doctor with the Interim Medical and Dental Council (IMDC) of South Africa for 1 year

Registration: On successful completion of the examination to qualify as a specialist, the candidate must register with the IMDC as a rheumatologist.

Employer
- research organisations
- private clinics
- hospitals and medical centres
- medical schools
- pharmaceutical companies
- private practice

Contact
South African Rheumatism Arthritis Association
Suite 3
Wilgeheuwel Hospital
Johannesburg
Tel: (011) 794-5896
Fax: (011) 794-5500

www.saraa.co.za